The Young Entrepreneurs Academy sessions to date have seen the young school students building their business plans and moving toward developing their websites in preparation for the March 20 Investor Panel Presentations and May 24 Trade Show Event.

During these sessions, business mentors have been involved with the students assisting in the development of their business plans. Additionally, speakers have shared various business-related topics and presentations with the class.

Bob Land of Landmark Financial Services is one of the speakers that has spent time with the students.

“I cannot express how great a time I had with the Young Entrepreneurs Academy when sharing my business and industry’s information – my only words to describe it that are even close are ‘fantastic!’” he said. “To see young people writing business plans and beginning their own entrepreneurial dream is incredible. They can have such a head start in life. The students are sharp and asked great questions, were polite and focused.

"Bravo to The Chamber and Wesleyan for partnering in this very important program.”

Another speaker presenting the e-commerce aspects of her business was Kimberly Thigpen of The Bath Place.

“I was pleased to be asked to present on the topic of e-commerce and greatly enjoyed the enthusiastic response interacting with the YEA! students," Thigpen said. "While there, I learned of additional opportunity to assist them in website design and am planning to work with them again. Very inspiring!”

Participants in a CEO Roundtable are preparing to work with the students answering questions on all aspects of owning and operating a business. In upcoming sessions, students will begin to move into the next phase of building their businesses learning about graphic design and website development, and individuals with expertise in these areas will meet with the students and assist them through this work. Students will also be taking field trips to several area businesses to gain first-hand experience about owning and operating their business.

The Chamber wishes to thank the speakers, mentors and business professionals that have given their time to these young students as they set their sights on the road to entrepreneurship. YEA! classes will continue through spring with graduation on May 29.

Business professionals interested in any of the upcoming activities between now and May are encouraged to get involved. For more information, contact The Chamber at 252-973-1214.